Top 10 Mayan Ruins In Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico is a treasure trove of ancient wonders. Home to some of the most iconic Mayan ruins in Mexico, it offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore ancient civilizations, breathtaking pyramids, and sacred cenotes. If you're planning to visit the Riviera Maya or Cancún in 2025, don’t miss the chance to discover the best ruins in Mexico—many of which are just a short ride away.

Whether you’re seeking a Chichén Itzá tour, exploring hidden temples, or swimming in cenotes near sacred sites, this list of the top 10 archaeological sites in Yucatán is your perfect starting point.

1. Chichén Itzá

The crown jewel of the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichén Itzá is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

• Famous for the Chichén Itzá pyramid, also known as El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulkán.
• During the spring and fall equinox, the snake shadow effect on the pyramid attracts thousands.
• Don’t miss the sacred cenote Chichén Itzá and the Great Ball Court.
• Where is Chichén Itzá located? In the Yucatán Peninsula, about 2.5 hours from Cancun.
• Perfect for history buffs and Instagram lovers alike.

Book a Chichén Itzá tour from Cancun , including transportation, entry tickets, and a certified guide. We also offer Chichén Itzá private tours for a more personalized experience.

2. Tulum Ruins

These Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico are perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The view is unbeatable!

• Explore the Temple of the Wind God and the Temple of the Frescoes.
• Combine your visit with a beach day or snorkeling adventure.
• Easily accessible via our Tulum tours with transfers from Playa del Carmen or Cancun.

3. Cobá Ruins

Located deep in the jungle, Cobá was once a mighty Mayan city. The highlight? The Nohoch Mul pyramid, which you can still climb!

• One of the tallest pyramids in the Yucatán.
• Rent a bike or take a tricycle taxi to explore the sprawling site.
• Combine with a cenote visit or Mayan village tour.

4. Ek Balam

A lesser-known gem near Valladolid, Ek Balam features ornate stone carvings and one of the few pyramids you can still climb.

• Walk up the Acropolis for stunning jungle views.
• Swim in Cenote X’Canche nearby.
• Ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds at Chichén Itzá.

5. Uxmal

Unlike the symmetrical design of Chichén Itzá, Uxmal is known for its unique oval-shaped Pyramid of the Magician.

• Rich in Puuc-style architecture.
• Watch the evening light and sound show for a magical experience.
• Located southwest of Mérida, ideal for a day trip.

6. Dzibilchaltún

Famous for the Temple of the Seven Dolls, this site is especially beautiful during the equinox when the sun shines directly through the temple windows.

• Includes a beautiful cenote for swimming.
• A museum on-site helps understand the area’s significance.

7. Mayapán

Often called the “last great Mayan capital”, Mayapán resembles a mini Chichén Itzá—but without the crowds.

• Explore restored temples, city walls, and astronomical observatories.
• Budget-friendly and peaceful.

8. Xel-Há Ruins

Often overshadowed by the nearby eco-park, Xel-Há’s ruins offer insight into the site's past as a Mayan port.

• Great for combining with aquatic adventures.
• Smaller, but historically rich.

9. Kabah

Located near Uxmal, Kabahis part of the Puuc Route and is famous for the Palace of the Masks.

• Hundreds of stone masks of the rain god Chaac cover the facade.
• A quiet alternative to the more famous sites.

10. San Gervasio (Cozumel)

For those exploring the island of Cozumel, San Gervasio is the most important Mayan site there.

• Popular with cruise ship passengers.
• Once a sacred site dedicated to Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of fertility.

Plan Your Yucatán Adventure in 2025

From the world-famous Chichén Itzá city to hidden jungle pyramids, the Yucatán Peninsula offers endless opportunities to explore the wonders of the ancient Maya.

With so many ruins in Yucatán, Mexico, planning your trip can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

Why Book With Us?

• Expert-guided tours to all major archaeological sites
• Comfortable transfers from Cancun to Chichén Itzá, Tulum, Uxmal, and more
• Packages with entrance tickets, restaurant meals, and cenote visits
• Top-rated hotels and experiences across the Riviera Maya and Cancún

Whether you're looking for a Chichén Itzá deluxe tour, a family-friendly day trip from Cancun, or a private archaeological adventure, we’ve got you covered.

2025 is the perfect year to explore the ancient ruins in Mexico, from iconic pyramids like Chichén Itzá to off-the-beaten-path gems like Ek Balam and Kabah. Don't miss the chance to connect with history, nature, and the mystical past of the Maya.

Ready to start your journey?
Book your tour, transfer, or hotel with us today and discover the best ruins in Mexico to visit!